Double-walled containment enclosure

ABSTRACT

A containment enclosure system at least a portion of which is double-walled. An exemplary system of the invention provides enhanced leak protection by monitoring the space within the double-walled portion of the containment enclosure system. The system is capable of providing continuous monitoring of the enclosure, collar, penetrations, and/or joints for potential leaks. Containment enclosures of the invention may be used as, used with, or attached to tanks, piping, dispensers, or any other type of storage container including vessels, boxes, spheres or containers of any shape. These containment enclosures may be underground, partially underground, or aboveground. In addition, these containment enclosures may be completely enclosed or enclosed on the bottom and sides with an open or covered top. Where these containment enclosures are attached to a storage tank or other storage container, embodiments also include the associated apparatus for affixing the enclosures to the storage tank or other storage container.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/446,512, filed Feb. 12, 2003, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to containment enclosures.More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate todouble-walled containment enclosures.

2. Background Information

Containment enclosures, sometimes called turbine enclosures or sumps,are currently used to provide a housing for various components,including, for example, a submersible pump, a termination point fordouble-wall piping, and/or access to fittings or accessories on the topof an underground tank. Containment enclosures may be constructed offiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), which is a proven material forlong-term performance, or other materials such as polyethylene,polypropylene, other plastics, or combinations of these materials.

A typical containment enclosure is often supplied with non-sealed,watertight, or sealed FRP lids to block access to the interior of thecontainment enclosure. In a typical installation, a containment collaris affixed to the storage tank and has an adhesive channel opposite theportion mounted to the tank to allow for a sealed joint with thecontainment enclosure body. The containment enclosure body is typicallya cylindrical or polygon shaped body that also includes an adhesivechannel to allow for a sealed joint with a reducer or flat top. Thereducer or flat top allows for the addition of a lid of the samediameter as the enclosure or for narrowing of the enclosure opening witha lid of a diameter less or equal to that of the enclosure body. As analternative, the adhesive joints may be replaced with field applied FRPlay ups attaching the parts together.

Because of the materials contained in these storage tanks, for examplegasoline or other hazardous liquids, more and more stringent regulationshave led to the use of double-walled storage tanks to allow for extraprotection from leaks as well as the ability to detect leaks. Althoughmuch of the focus has been on maintaining the integrity of the tankitself, as the need for safer and more reliable systems increases, itmay become more desirable to have an entire system, tank and containmentenclosure combined, with the safety and durability now embodied in thetank itself.

Similarly, underground containers are also used for holding anddetecting fuel leaks under fuel dispensing pumps, for pipingtransitions, or for vapor recovery systems. These containers can alsobenefit by the use of containment enclosures for the same reasons aspreviously noted for tanks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a containment enclosure system at least aportion of which is double-walled. Preferably, the entire containmentenclosure is double-walled. An exemplary system of the inventionprovides enhanced leak protection by monitoring the space within thedouble-walled portion of the containment enclosure system. In addition,the exemplary system is preferably capable of providing continuousmonitoring of the enclosure, collar, penetrations, and/or joints forpotential leaks. Containment enclosures of the invention may be used as,used with, or attached to tanks, piping, dispensers, or any other typeof storage container including vessels, boxes, spheres or containers ofany shape. These containment enclosures may be underground, partiallyunderground, or aboveground. In addition, as described below, thesecontainment enclosures may be completely enclosed or enclosed on thebottom and sides with an open or covered top. Where these containmentenclosures are attached to a storage tank or other storage container,embodiments also include the associated apparatus for affixing theenclosures to the storage tank or other storage container.

One embodiment of the invention provides a containment enclosure thatincludes a body, an access to the interior of the body, a shoulderlocated next to the access, a reservoir, and a sensor. The access islocated near an upper extremity of the body. At least a portion of thebody includes an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall and theouter wall define a body monitoring space. The body monitoring spacepreferably has an up-to-down orientation that extends from a top end ofthe body to a bottom end of the body. Preferably, the body monitoringspace surrounds the entire body. The reservoir is in fluid communicationwith the body monitoring space. The reservoir is configured to supply afluid to the body monitoring space. The sensor is disposed within thereservoir. The sensor is configured to monitor movement of the fluidwithin the body monitoring space.

The reservoir can be disposed within the body in one of several ways.For example, the reservoir can be disposed near the shoulder. In anembodiment in which the shoulder is located near the upper end of anupper extremity of the body, the reservoir is located near the upper endof the body to provide maximum monitoring of the body. The reservoir canbe detachably attached to the body. Detachably attached to the bodymeans the reservoir is a unit separable from the body. Alternatively,the reservoir can be fixedly attached to the body. Fixedly attachedmeans that the reservoir is an integrated portion of the body.Preferably, the reservoir can be detachably or fixed attached to theshoulder. Alternatively, the reservoir can be detachably or fixedlyattached to the inner wall.

Preferably, the fluid communication between the reservoir and the bodymonitoring space is facilitated by a hole or a connector. Alternatively,the fluid communication between the reservoir and the body monitoringspace is facilitated by a hose.

In another embodiment, the containment enclosure further includes a lid.The lid is configured to block the access. The lid includes a lidmonitoring space. The lid monitoring space may be in fluid communicationwith the body monitoring space or monitored independently. The reservoiris configured to supply the fluid to the lid monitoring space.Preferably, the reservoir can be detachably or fixedly attached to thelid. Preferably, the fluid communication between the lid monitoringspace and the body monitoring space can be facilitated by a connector ora hose.

Preferably, the shoulder includes one or more of a vertical portion, ahorizontal portion, and a slope portion.

Another embodiment of the containment enclosure of the inventionincludes two portions and a sensor. The first portion includes a firstmonitoring space. The first monitoring space is defined by an inner walland an outer wall of the first portion. The second portion is configuredto be coupled to the first portion. The second portion includes a secondmonitoring space. The second monitoring space is defined by an innerwall and an outer wall of the second portion. The second monitoringspace is in fluid communication with the first monitoring space to forman integrated monitoring space. The sensor is configured to detect fluidmovement in the integrated monitoring space. Preferably, a doubleflanged joint can be used to couple the second portion to the firstportion.

Depending on the type of sensor used, the integrated monitoring spacecan include a vacuum or it can be pressurized. In still anotherimplementation using a different sensor, the containment enclosurefurther includes a reservoir. The reservoir is in fluid communicationwith the integrated monitoring space. A fluid flows freely between thereservoir and the integrated monitoring space. Preferably, the fluid isa brine solution or another fluid.

Preferably, the containment enclosure can further include a thirdportion. The third portion has a third monitoring space. The thirdmonitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of thethird portion. The third monitoring space is in fluid communication withthe first monitoring space and the second monitoring space. In thisembodiment, the integrated monitoring space includes the thirdmonitoring space in addition to the first monitoring space and thesecond monitoring space. A first double flange joint can be used tocouple the first portion to the second portion.

A second double flanged joint can be used to couple the third portion tothe second portion.

In still another embodiment, the containment enclosure of the inventionincludes a collar portion, a top portion, a reservoir, and a sensor. Thecollar portion is configured to be attached to a vessel. The vessel canbe, for example, an underground storage tank. The collar portionincludes a collar monitoring space. The collar monitoring space isdefined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the collar portion. Thetop portion is configured to be coupled to the collar portion. The topportion includes a top monitoring space. The top monitoring space isdefined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the top portion. The topmonitoring space is in fluid communication with the collar monitoringspace to form an integrated monitoring space. The reservoir is in fluidcommunication with the integrated monitoring space. The sensor isconfigured to monitor fluid movement in the integrated monitoring space.

Preferably, the reservoir is located near an upper extremity of the topportion. Preferably, the top portion is coupled to the collar portionduring field installation.

In an alternative implementation, the containment enclosure furtherincludes an extension portion. The extension portion is configured to becoupled to the top portion and the collar portion, separating the topportion from the collar portion. The extension portion includes anextension monitoring space. The extension monitoring space is defined byan inner wall and an outer wall of the extension portion. The extensionmonitoring space is in fluid communication with the top monitoring spaceand the collar monitoring space. In this configuration, the integratedmonitoring space includes the extension monitoring space in addition tothe top monitoring space and the collar monitoring space. Preferably,the extension portion is coupled to the collar portion and the topportion during field installation.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a containmentenclosure for mounting to a tank or other vessel. The containmentenclosure includes a collar portion, an extension portion, a topportion, a reservoir, a fluid, and a sensor. The collar portion has acollar monitoring space. The collar monitoring space is defined by aninner wall and an outer wall of the collar portion. The collar portionis configured to be coupled to the tank. The extension portion has anextension monitoring space. The extension monitoring space is defined byan inner wall and an outer wall of the extension portion. The extensionportion is configured to be coupled to the collar portion. The topportion has a top monitoring space. The top monitoring space is definedby an inner wall and an outer wall of the top portion. The top portionis configured to be coupled to the extension portion. The reservoir iscoupled to the top portion. The reservoir is in fluid communication withthe top monitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collarmonitoring space. The fluid flows freely within the reservoir, the topmonitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collarmonitoring space. The sensor is configured to monitor movement of thefluid in the reservoir, the top monitoring space, the extensionmonitoring space, and the collar monitoring space.

Preferably, the top portion can have a flat top shape or a conical topshape. Preferably, one or more of the top portion, the extensionportion, and the collar portion have a round cross section.Alternatively, one or more of the top portion, the extension portion,and the collar portion can have a polygonal cross section, an ellipticalcross section, or another cross section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of an exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention.

FIG. 2 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention thatincludes a reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosurethat has a conical top.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of theinvention shown in FIG. 2 showing a top portion, an extension portion,and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.

FIG. 4 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of theinvention shown in FIG. 4 showing a top portion, an extension portion,and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.

FIG. 6 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure that hasa flat top.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of theinvention shown in FIG. 6 showing a top portion, an extension portion,and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.

FIG. 8 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure that hasa flat top.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of theinvention shown in FIG. 8 showing a top portion, an extension portion,and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.

FIG. 10 shows different configurations of the reservoir of theinvention.

FIG. 11 shows additional configurations of the reservoir of theinvention.

FIG. 12 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does notinclude a reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containmentenclosure's conical top.

FIG. 13 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does notinclude a separate reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of thecontainment enclosure's flat top.

FIG. 14 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure'sflat top using a hose.

FIG. 15 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure'sflat top using a connector.

FIG. 16 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa lid having a lid monitoring space and different coupling means tointegrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of thecontainment enclosure's body.

FIG. 17 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa lid having a lid monitoring space and an exemplary means to integratethe lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containmentenclosure's body.

FIG. 18 shows different configurations on how a lid can be coupled to abody of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention.

FIG. 19 shows how an exemplary reservoir of the invention can beconfigured on a containment enclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Some governmental regulatory agencies require double wall constructionof underground storage tanks (UST). The double wall constructionprovides for the monitoring of a monitoring space for leaks in eitherthe primary or the secondary wall (the inner and the outer walls) of theUST. The monitoring space is also known as the interstitial space or theannular space. Preferred embodiments of the present invention disclosethe use of a sensor to monitor the monitoring space of a containmentenclosure of the invention. The monitoring space of the invention may bedry, which can include a vacuum or be pressurized. Alternatively, themonitoring space may be filled with a sensing fluid. Specificembodiments are described herein to provide enabling description andbest mode, but the scope of the invention is not limited to the specificembodiments.

A wet monitoring space offers simple sensing by relying upon thepressure head supplied by the sensing fluid to cause the sensing fluidto leak from the monitoring space if a leak is present in either theprimary or the secondary walls. A sensor supplied and installed in themonitoring space detects a loss of the sensing fluid, which indicatesthe leak. Accordingly, by monitoring the pressure head of the sensingfluid, movement of the sensing fluid within the monitoring space (intoor out of) can be determined. As a result, leak associated with one ormore of the primary and secondary walls can be detected.

In certain embodiments of the invention, it is noted that a leak in oneor both the primary or the secondary wall results in the sensordetecting a loss of the sensing fluid when the leak is at or below thesensor level. As a result, it is preferable that the monitoring spaceand/or sensor be extended as high as possible in the containmentenclosure. Furthermore, it is preferable that the monitoring space beconfigured appropriately to accommodate the sensor. It is preferablethat there be sufficient volume in the monitoring space at the level ofthe sensor to provide for level changes caused by expansion andcontraction of the sensing fluid. The expansion and contraction can beaffected by, for example, changes in temperature, internal pressure onthe containment walls, and external pressure on the containment wallswithout causing the sensor to falsely indicate that one or more of thewalls are leaking. It is preferable that the sensor and the sensingfluid be sized and positioned within the containment enclosure toaccomplish the aforementioned objectives without interfering or creatingobstacles to easy access of the primary space (or the interior) of thecontainment enclosure for piping and piping access.

If the containment enclosure includes a lid, the lid may also besecondarily contained with a similar monitoring space. The monitoringspace of the lid may or may not be connected to the monitoring space ofthe body of the containment enclosure. If connected, the lid may includethe reservoir. If not connected, the lid may include a second reservoir.

For embodiments of the present invention that are configured to beinstalled on an UST, it is preferable that the containment enclosure beconfigured to include a body. The body preferably includes one or moreportions. As described below, preferred embodiments of the inventioninclude a collar portion, a top portion, and an extension portion.Preferably, the collar portion of the containment enclosure is installedon the UST in a factory. The top portion and the extension portion areconfigured to be field installed to the collar portion. This allows forshipment of the UST and the containment enclosure without incurringcosts associated with wide or tall loads. Preferably, each of the topportion, the extension portion, and the collar portion can be configuredto have different heights to accommodate field conditions depending on,for example, depth of the UST, size of the containment enclosure,groundwater table, and other factors.

Preferably, the extension portion is coupled to the collar portion usinga double flanged joint, which is described in Applicants' U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/446,512. Similarly, the top portion iscoupled to the extension portion using another double flanged joint. Ifthe extension portion is not used, then the top portion is coupleddirectly to the collar portion. The double flanged joint allows thethree portions of the containment enclosure to be placed together andthe flanged cavity filled with an adhesive or caulking suitable forexposure to the sensing fluid or any other fluid that may leak into orbe otherwise found in the primary space of the containment enclosure orfound outside the secondary enclosure. This method provides a fieldfabricated joint which maintains the monitoring space across the joint.In another words, different monitoring spaces associated with the collarportion, the extension portion, and the top portion can be combined andbehave as an integrated monitoring space. As an alternative, the jointsmay be field applied lay ups on the interior and the exterior.

Similarly, it is preferable that piping transition boxes, dispensersumps, or other vessels be field installable in the same manner usingthe same joining method.

FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of an exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention. In this exemplary embodiment, containment enclosure 100is configured to serve as a sump for an UST, depicted in FIG. 1 as tank102. Containment enclosure 100 includes collar portion 110, extensionportion 120, and top portion 130. As indicated in sections A—A, each oftop portion 130, extension portion 120, and collar portion 110 can havea round, elliptical, polygonal shape, or other shape. Collar portion110, extension portion 120, and top portion 130 may all be made of amaterial such as, for example, fiberglass reinforced plastic or ofdifferent materials.

One or more of top portion 130, extension portion 120, and collarportion 110 can be combined and be collectively known as body 160. Body160, as shown in FIG. 1, includes interior 101, access 103, and shoulder105. Interior 101 can be used to house, for examples, componentsassociated with a sump. Access 103 can have a similar, larger, orsmaller shape as those depicted in cross-sections A—A. If a dimensionassociated with access 103 (e.g., a diameter if the shape is a circle)is smaller than that of body 160, then shoulder 105 would be the areathat surrounds access 103. Preferably, access 103 is located near thetop of body 160.

Tank 102 includes manway 104, which is accessible from within interior101 of containment enclosure 100. Interior 101 is, in turn, accessiblevia access 103 of containment enclosure 100.

Collar portion 110 is configured to be coupled to tank 102 at joint 112.Joint 112 may be created using any known methods. Joint 112 can becreated in the factory or in the field. Preferably, joint 112 is made inthe factory. Preferably, collar portion 110 is welded to tank 102 atjoint 112. Height h1 associated with collar portion 110 can be avariable. In other words, based on design considerations, includingtransportation restriction, field conditions, etc. For example, h1 canrange from several inches to several feet.

Extension portion 120 is coupled to collar portion 110 at joint 122.Details of joint 122 are disclosed in Applicants' U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/446,512, filed Feb. 12, 2003, which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. Joint 122 can be, for example, adouble flange joint. Extension portion 120 has a length, h2, which maybe field adjustable. In other words, depending on design considerationsand field conditions, h2 can be shortened or lengthened, as appropriate.For example, h2 can range from several inches to several feet.

Top portion 130 is coupled to extension portion 120 at joint 132. Joint132 is preferably similar or identical to joint 122. For example, joint132 can be a double flange joint. A section of top portion 130 has alength, h3, which may be a variable. In other words, depending on designconsiderations and field conditions, h3 can be shortened or lengthened,as appropriate. For example, h3 can range from several inches to severalfeet. If extension portion 120 is not used, top portion 130 is coupleddirectly to collar portion 110. If multiple portions are not required,then top portion 130 can be modified to be directly coupled to tank 102.

As shown in the drawings, top portion 130 can be configured differently.In some embodiments, e.g., FIG. 2, top portion 130 includes a conicaltop near the shoulder. In some other embodiments, e.g., FIG. 1, topportion 130 includes a flat top near the shoulder. Other configurationsare possible.

Containment enclosure 100 includes leak sensor 150. Leak sensor 150 canbe placed in a reservoir, e.g., reservoir 140 shown in FIG. 1. Leaksensor 150 can be placed in any of top portion 130, extension portion120, or collar portion 110, depending on design. Other factors that canaffect the placement of leak sensor 150 includes field conditions,governmental regulations, placements of fixtures within containmentenclosure 100, and so on. Preferably, leak sensor 150 is placed inreservoir 140. Reservoir 140 is preferably placed as high as possible tomaximize detection zone of body 160. For example, reservoir 140 isplaced near, or configured to be part of, shoulder 105, which is locatednear the upper extremity of body 160.

In a preferred embodiment, leak sensor 150 is preferably mounted on aninterior wall or inner wall of top portion 130 for monitoring a level offluid 142 contained in reservoir 140. Fluid 142 can be, for example, abrine solution.

FIG. 2 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3is an exploded view of containment enclosure 200, which includes collarportion 210, extension portion 220, and top portion 230. Top portion 230has a conical shaped top or shoulder 205. In this embodiment,containment enclosure 200 includes reservoir 240. Reservoir 240 isfabricated into (or being integrated as part of) the conical top orshoulder 205 of containment enclosure 200.

Collar portion 210 is coupled to tank 102 at joint 212. Extensionportion 220 is coupled to collar portion 210 at joint 222. Top portion230 is coupled to extension portion 220 at joint 232. Joints 222 and 232are preferably double flanged joints. Adhesive or caulk 290 is used tocouple different portions of containment enclosure 200 at joints 222 and232. Preferably, joints 222 and 232 are configured such that fluid 242(or brine) can flow freely through them, between inner 202 and outerwall 204, along each of collar portion 210, extension portion 220, andtop portion 230.

Top portion 230 includes top monitoring space 231. Extension portion 220includes extension monitoring space 221. Collar portion 210 includecollar monitoring space 211. Each of monitoring spaces 231, 221, and 211are defined by inner wall 202 and outer wall 204, as indicated in FIG.2. In this embodiment, since monitoring spaces 231, 221, and 211 are influid communication, they are collectively known as the integratedmonitoring space 203. As shown in FIG. 2, integrated monitoring space203 is filled with fluid 242.

Reservoir 240 is in fluid communication with integrated monitoring space203 between walls 202 and 204. If a leak were to occur in containmentenclosure 200, fluid 242 would gradually leak out causing the level todrop in reservoir 240. If the level were to drop too low, a sensorplaced at location 241 would indicate that containment enclosure 200 isleaking. Any known sensor may be placed at location 241. For example, afloat sensor may be used.

Preferably, reservoir 240 includes one or more openings 244, 246, and248. Preferably, one or more of these openings are closable and leakresistant. Each opening may serve a different purposes. For example, inthe exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, opening 244 can be used tofill reservoir 240 with fluid 242. Opening 248 may be used to drainfluid 242 out of reservoir 240. Opening 246 may be used as a vent tofacilitate movement of fluid 242 in reservoir 240 and within integratedmonitoring space 203 and to limit the fluid level in reservoir 240 whenfilling reservoir 240 space with fluid 242.

FIG. 4 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5is an exploded view of containment enclosure 400, which includes collarportion 210, extension portion 220, and top portion 430. Top portion 430has a conical shaped top or shoulder 405. In this embodiment,containment enclosure 400 includes reservoir 440. Unlike reservoir 240which is part of containment enclosure 200, reservoir 440 is a componentor unit that is separate from top portion 430. In other words, reservoir440 is separately attachable to the conical top or shoulder 405 ofcontainment enclosure 400.

Reservoir 440 is attached to the inner wall 402. Reservoir 440 can beattached to containment enclosure 400 using any known methods.Preferably, reservoir 440 can be attached to inner wall 402 usingsupports 249 and 250. Supports 249 and 250 can include one or more offasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.), brackets, hooks, or by othermeans including by welding, glues, etc.

One or more holes 403 on inner wall 402 provide annular space continuityor fluid communication between reservoir 440 and integrated monitoringspace 203. Inner wall 402 is preferably an integral or extension part ofinner wall 202. Hole 403 provides a way for fluid 242 to flow betweenreservoir 440 and integrated monitoring space 203. Thus, as shown inFIGS. 2-5, a reservoir of the invention can be integrated (e.g.,reservoir 240) or attachable (e.g., reservoir 440) to differentcontainment enclosures of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a flat top. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of theexemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 6.Containment enclosure 600 includes collar portion 210, extension portion220, and top portion 630. Reservoir 640 is coupled to top portion 630that has a flat shape top or shoulder 605. Reservoir 640 functionssimilarly to reservoir 240. It addition, reservoir 640 is coupled tocontainment enclosure 600 similarly as reservoir 240 is coupled tocontainment enclosure 200.

In this embodiment, top portion 630 is similar to top portion 230described above, except that top portion 630 includes a flat top, ratherthan a conical top, and reservoir 640 includes an additional opening642. Additional opening 642 can be used to fill reservoir 640 with fluid242. In this configuration, since additional opening 642 is located onouter wall 204, it would be easier to fill reservoir 640 via opening 642than to do so using opening 244 that is on inner wall 202. Additionally,opening 642 may also be used to place a sensor in reservoir 640. In thismanner, if the fluid level were to drop too low, the sensor placedthrough opening 642 would indicate that containment enclosure 600 isleaking. Any known sensor may be placed at location 642. For example, afloat sensor may be used.

FIG. 8 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a flat top of shoulder 805. FIG. 9 is an explodedview of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown inFIG. 8. Containment enclosure 800 includes collar portion 210, extensionportion 220, and top portion 830. Top portion 830 has a flat shape topor shoulder 805, and it is coupled to reservoir 840.

In this embodiment, top portion 830 is similar to top portion 430described above. Reservoir 840 is attached to the inner wall 802. Innerwall 802 is preferably an integral part of inner wall 202. Hole 803provides a way for fluid 242 located with reservoir 840 to flow freelybetween reservoir 840 and integrated monitoring space 203. Reservoir 840is attached to containment enclosure by supports 249 and 250.

It is noted that any one of reservoir 240, 440, 640, and 840 can beconfined to a limited portion or the full extent of the shoulder of thecontainment enclosure. In other words, in one exemplary implementation,the reservoir can extent the entire circumference around the topportion. In another exemplary implementation, the reservoir may extent asmaller portion of the circumference of the top portion. Similarly, thereservoir may extend fully from the inner wall along the full length ofthe shoulder (see reservoir 1017 in FIG. 11) or any portion thereof(e.g., reservoirs 1015, 1016, 1021, 1023, etc.).

Additionally, more than one reservoir may be configured to detectdifferent portions of the containment enclosure or multiple reservoirsmay be connected and used as one. For example, each of the top portion,the extension portion, and the collar portion may be associated with areservoir. Furthermore, different reservoirs may be used to detect leaksin, for example, eastern, northern, southern, and western portions ofthe containment enclosure.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show 24 different configurations of the reservoir thatcan be coupled to an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention.These configurations are disclosed to indicate some of the manyconfigurations contemplated by the inventors, and they are shown forillustrative purposes. Additional configurations are possible. Theinvention is not limited to the configurations specifically disclosedherein.

Reservoir 1001 is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure onthe interior side of the containment enclosure. As shown, reservoir 1001has fluid communication with a monitoring space via a hole on an innerwall of the containment enclosure. Reservoir 1001 has a vertical walland a horizontal wall.

Reservoir 1002 is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure onthe interior side of the containment enclosure. As shown, an inner wallof the containment enclosure forms part of reservoir 1002, and reservoir1002 has fluid communication with a monitoring space of the containmentenclosure. Reservoir 1002 has a vertical wall and a horizontal wall.

Reservoir 1003 is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure.As shown, an inner wall and an outer wall of the containment enclosureforms reservoir 1003. Indeed, reservoir 1003 is an enlarged portion of amonitoring space of the containment enclosure. The enlargementfacilitates placement of a sensor and detection fluid. Reservoir 1003has an interior slope wall, which is an extension of the inner wall andan exterior slope wall, which is an extension of the outer wall.

Reservoir 1004 is similar to reservoir 1003. As shown, reservoir 1004differsfrom reservoir 1003 in that reservoir 1004 has an enlarge portionnear the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.

Reservoir 1005 is similar to reservoir 1004. As shown, reservoir 1005differs from reservoir 1004 in that reservoir 1005 does not have anenlarge portion along the sloped portion. It can be described thatreservoir 1005 is placed along a portion or the entire circumference ofthe access to the interior of the containment enclosure.

Reservoir 1006 is similar to reservoir 1004. Reservoir 1006 isconfigured to be coupled to an exterior of the containment enclosure. Asshown, reservoir 1006 can be an external reservoir that is coupled tothe top portion of the containment enclosure near the access to theinterior of the containment enclosure. Reservoirs 1007, 1008, and 1009are three additional possible variations of a reservoir that can becoupled to a containment enclosure having a conical top or slopedshoulder.

Reservoirs 1010 through 1023 are exemplary reservoirs that can becoupled to a containment enclosure having a flat top or horizontalshoulder.

Reservoir 1010 extends along the full horizontal portion of a shoulderof the containment enclosure. As shown, the upper and exterior walls ofreservoir 1010 are an extension of the outer wall of the containmentenclosure, and the lower and interior walls are an extension of theinner wall of the containment enclosure. Reservoir 1010 has fluidcommunication with a monitoring space of the containment enclosure,which is defined by the outer and inner walls.

Reservoir 1011 extends along a fraction of the horizontal portion of theshoulder and the full extent of the vertical portion of the shoulder.

Reservoir 1012 is a combination of reservoirs 1010 and 1011. In otherwords, reservoir 1012 extends fully along the vertical and horizontalportions of the shoulder.

Reservoir 1013 is another variation that includes a slope wall, which isan extension of the outer wall of the containment enclosure.

Reservoir 1014 differs from reservoir 1013 in at least one significantaspect. That is, the sloped wall of reservoir 1014 is not an extensionof the outer wall of the containment enclosure. Rather, the sloped wallis an additional wall that serves as an exterior wall of reservoir 1014while an extension of the outer wall serves as an interior wall ofreservoir 1014. Reservoir 1014 has fluid communication with themonitoring space of the containment enclosure via one or more holes.

Reservoirs 1010 through 1014 are configured to be coupled to an exteriorof the containment enclosure. Reservoir 1015 through 1023 are configuredto be coupled to an interior of the containment enclosure. As indicated,the reservoir can extend partially or fully between the inner wall ofthe containment enclosure to the edge of the access to the interior ofthe containment enclosure.

Reservoir 1015 includes a horizontal wall that is coupled to the innerof the containment enclosure. Reservoir 1015 also includes a verticalwall that joins the horizontal wall to the shoulder, which is anextension of the outer wall. Reservoir 1015 has fluid communication withthe monitoring space through one or more holes on the inner.

Reservoir 1016 differs from reservoir 1015 in that the horizontal andvertical walls of reservoir 1016 are an extension of the inner wall ofthe containment enclosure. It can be described that reservoir 1016 is anenlarged portion of the monitoring space that is located near theshoulder.

Reservoir 1017 is similar to reservoir 1016. However, reservoir 1017extends fully from the outer wall to the edge of the access to theinterior of the containment enclosure.

Reservoirs 1021, 1022, and 1023 are additional variations of reservoir1017. Reservoir 1021 is an illustration that the reservoir can be placedin a middle portion of the shoulder. Reservoir 1022 indicates that thereservoir can be placed near the monitoring space. Reservoir 1023indicates the reservoir can be placed away from the monitoring space andbe closer to the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.

Reservoir 1024 demonstrates that the reservoir can also be placed abovethe shoulder.

Reservoirs 1018, 1019, and 1020 are three configurations indicatingarrangements similar to those of reservoirs 1021, 1022, and 1023 can beimplemented for reservoirs with a sloped wall.

FIG. 12 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does notinclude a reservoir. Containment enclosure 1200 includes top portion1230. In this embodiment, sensor 1250 can be placed anywhere inintegrated monitoring space 1203, which includes a first monitoringspace associated with top portion 1230, a second monitoring spaceassociated with extension portion 220, and a third monitoring spaceassociated with collar portion 210. Sensor 1250 can be placed via, forexample, opening 1232 of top portion 1230. Any known sensor may be used.Integrated monitoring space 1203 can be a vacuum or pressurized or fluidfilled.

FIG. 13 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does notinclude a reservoir. The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 is similar to thatwhich is depicted in FIG. 12. Containment enclosure 1300 includes topportion 1330. In this embodiment, top portion 1330 is different from topportion 1230 in its flat top shape. Top portion 1230 depicted in FIG. 12has a conical top shape.

FIG. 14 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure'sflat top using a hose. Unlike any of the reservoirs previouslydescribed, none of the walls of reservoir 1440 is an integrated part orotherwise attached to a wall of containment enclosure 1300. Rather,reservoir 1440 is an independent component. Reservoir 1440 has fluidcommunication with integrated monitoring space 1203 via hose 1444. Hose1444 can be attached to integrated monitoring space 1203 using any knownmethods, including the use of quick release connectors or other couplingdevices. Reservoir 1440 is preferably placed at a location as high aspossible to maximize detection zone of containment enclosure 1300. Forexample, bracket 1446 may be attached to containment enclosure 1300 tosupport reservoir 1440. Alternatively, reservoir 1440 may be hung usinga hook or a like device. Further, if a lid or cover is used to cover theaccess to the interior of containment enclosure 1300, reservoir 1440 maybe hung under the lid.

FIG. 15 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesreservoir 1540 coupled to a monitoring space of the containmentenclosure's flat top using connector 1544. Connector 1544 is preferablya quick release connector. In this embodiment, fluid communicationbetween reservoir 1540 and integrated monitoring space 1203 isfacilitated by connector 1544. No hose is required.

FIG. 16 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa lid having a lid monitoring space and different coupling means tointegrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of thecontainment enclosure's body.

Containment enclosure 1600 includes lid 1670 and body 1660. Lid 1670includes lid monitoring space 1672 and body 1660 includes bodymonitoring space 1662. Lid monitoring space 1672 can extend the fulllength of lid 1670 as shown in the upper figure, or it can have asmaller extent (e.g., near the middle of lid 1670) as indicated on thelower figure.

Sensor 150 can be placed in lid monitoring space 1672 or body monitoringspace 1662. Lid monitoring space 1672 has fluid communication with bodymonitoring space 1662. The fluid communication is made possible by hose1674 (see FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, 16 c, 16 d, and 16 e). Hose 1674 can beplaced within containment enclosure 1600 (see FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, and 16e) or outside of it (see FIGS. 16 c and 16 d). Gasket 1676 or othersuitable means, including O-rings and the like, can be used to provideseal between lid 1670 and body 1660.

One or more valves (not shown) can be used to shut off fluidcommunication between lid monitoring space 1672 and body monitoringspace 1662 or along hose 1674. These valves, if used, enabledisconnection of hose 1674 or separation of lid 1670 from body 1660without losing gas, liquid, or disturbing vacuum or air pressure in oneor both of between lid monitoring space 1672 and body monitoring space1662.

FIG. 17 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure ofthe invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includesa lid having a lid monitoring space and an exemplary means to integratethe lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containmentenclosure's body. Containment enclosure 1700 includes lid 1770 and body1660, which are associated with lid monitoring space 1772 and 1662,respectively. When lid 1770 is in a closed position as shown in FIG. 17,lid monitoring space 1772 has fluid communication with body monitoryspace 1662. Gaskets 1666 and 1776 provides seal to provide integrity oflid monitoring space 1772 and body monitory space 1662.

FIG. 18 shows different configurations on how a lid can be coupled to abody of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention. Systems1801 through 1811 are eleven exemplary systems that can be used tocontrol fluid communication between lid 1770 and body 1660.

FIG. 19 shows how an exemplary reservoir of the invention can beconfigured on a containment enclosure. FIG. 19 shows two exemplarycontainment enclosures. Containment enclosure 1910 includes a bottomwall and four side walls. Each of the bottom and side walls includes aninner wall and an outer wall that define monitoring space 1903 (seesection A—A). Containment enclosure 1910 has an open top. The open topcan be configured to receive a lid or cover. Containment enclosure 1920includes a bottom wall and four side walls. In addition, containmentenclosure 1920 further includes a top wall. Each of the top, bottom, andside walls includes an inner wall and an outer wall that definemonitoring space 1903.

Each of containment enclosures 1910 and 1920 can be configured toinclude reservoir 1940 and sensor 1950. Fluid 1942 within reservoir 1940can flow freely into monitoring space 1903 via one or more holes 1944that provides fluid communication between reservoir 1940 and monitoringspace 1903. Sensor 1950 is configured to monitoring fluid 1942. Forexample, sensor 1960 can be configured to detect the level of fluid 1942within reservoir 1940, thereby detecting any leak associated withmonitoring space 1903.

In the foregoing detailed description, systems and methods in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention have been described withreference to specific exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, the presentspecification and figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather thanrestrictive. The scope of the invention is to be further understood bythe numbered exhibits appended hereto, and by their equivalents.

1. A containment enclosure comprising: a collar portion configured to beattached to a vessel, wherein the collar portion comprises a collarmonitoring space defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of thecollar portion; a top portion configured to be coupled to the collarportion, wherein the top portion comprises a top monitoring spacedefined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the top portion, whereinthe top monitoring space is in fluid communication with the collarmonitoring space to form an integrated monitoring space; a reservoir influid communication with integrated monitoring space; and a sensorconfigured to monitor fluid movement in the integrated monitoring space.2. The containment enclosure of claim 1, wherein the reservoir islocated near an upper extremity of the top portion.
 3. The containmentenclosure of claim 1, wherein the top portion is coupled to the collarportion during field installation.
 4. The containment enclosure of claim1, further comprising an extension portion, wherein the extensionportion is configured to be coupled to the top portion and the collarportion, separating the top portion from the collar portion, wherein theextension portion comprises an extension monitoring space defined by aninner wall and an outer wall of the extension portion, wherein theextension monitoring space is in fluid communication with the topmonitoring space and the collar monitoring space, wherein the integratedmonitoring space includes the extension monitoring space.
 5. Thecontainment enclosure of claim 4, wherein the extension portion iscoupled to the collar portion and the top portion during fieldinstallation.
 6. A containment enclosure for mounting to a tankcomprising: a collar portion having a collar monitoring space defined byan inner wall and an outer wall of the collar portion, wherein thecollar portion is configured to be coupled to the tank; an extensionportion having an extension monitoring space defined by an inner walland an outer wall of the extension portion, the extension portion isconfigured to be coupled to the collar portion; a top portion having atop monitoring space defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of thetop portion, wherein the top portion is configured to be coupled to theextension portion; a reservoir coupled to the top portion, wherein thereservoir is in fluid communication with the top monitoring space, theextension monitoring space, and the collar monitoring space; a fluidflowing freely within the reservoir, the top monitoring space, theextension monitoring space, and the collar monitoring space; and asensor configured to monitor movement of the fluid in the reservoir, thetop monitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collarmonitoring space.
 7. The containment enclosure of claim 6, wherein thetop portion has a flat top shape.
 8. The containment enclosure of claim6, wherein the top portion has a conical top shape.
 9. The containmentenclosure of claim 6, wherein one or more of the top portion, theextension portion, and the collar portion have a round cross section.10. The containment enclosure of claim 6, wherein one or more of the topportion, the extension portion, and the collar portion have a polygonalcross section.
 11. The containment enclosure of claim 6, wherein one ormore of the top portion, the extension portion, and the collar portionhave an elliptical cross section.
 12. The containment enclosure of claim6, further comprising a lid having a lid monitoring space, wherein thelid monitoring space is configured to have fluid communication with thetop monitoring space.